Claire’s At the Depot‎
65 South 3rd Street
Warrenton, VA 20186-3304
540-351-1616
http://www.clairesrestaurant.com/

American | $$

Located in a beautifully renovated old train station Claire’s is the perfect destination for Sunday brunch.

They serve the Seattle’s Best line of Starbucks Coffee.

The warm Cranberry Scones are like dessert as an appetizer.

The Famous She Crab Soup is always a treat. Today it was a little on the salty side but that did little to distract from the full-bodied crab taste of the thick chowder like broth. If you are fond of crab you want to be sure to order this.

I chose my favorite, Black Angus Rib Eye Steak with Applewood Smoked Bacon, Maple Sausage, Over Easy Eggs, and Oven Roasted Potatoes. Sadly they had run out of the sausage and doubled up on the bacon. I love bacon but I missed the maple sausage. It is home-made and really good. The steak was so tender we didn’t need a steak knife to cut it.

My wife a wonderful Cornmeal Crusted Pan-Seared Rainbow Trout with Scrambled Eggs and Smoked Gouda Grits. Trout is similar to salmon but very fine and light. Not a strong gamy fish at all. The smoked gouda grits had a nice hint of smoke and are creamier than most.

Aunt Beatty’s Chocolate Cake with a coffee infused icing was delicious and not to sweet.

We were joined by 2 other couples today and were seated at a nice round top with plenty of room. With the restaurant full the noise level was high and at times hard to hear. The service was excellent as it has been on all our visits. Claire’s at the Depot has a near perfect 4.7 Star Rating on OpenTable so it is always busy. I have never had any luck getting a reservation for brunch online, you should call to get Sunday reservations. With Summer approaching more seating will be available on the outdoor patio. We have never been disappointed at Claire’s and recommend it to everyone.